Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Car Travel Tips for Pets

Pre-Travel Preparation

Healthy Start: The last thing you need is a sick
pet when traveling. This means a visit to the vet for a medical checkup
and to ensure that your pet is up-to-date with all necessary
vaccinations. The veterinarian can also issue a health certificate for
your pet. If you and your pet will be traveling across state lines, you
must obtain a recent health certificate and a certificate of rabies
vaccination. If your plans include traveling with your pet from the
United States to Canada, you will need to bring along a certificate
issued by a veterinarian that clearly identifies the animal and
certifies that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies during the
preceding 36 month period. Be sure to contact the government of the
province you plan to visit as each province has its own requirements.

Plan for Restraint: Have a plan for how you're
going to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle. This is a
crucial element of pet travel that is not taken seriously enough. The
reality is that hundreds of pets are injured or even killed each year
because they are allowed free reign in cars, trucks, RVs, and SUVs.
Even more real is the toll in human life and property damage caused
when an "enthusiastic" animal distracts a driver, leading to an
accident. Vehicle pet barriers, pet seat belts, pet car seats, and pet travel crates
are all excellent ways to keep your pet (and you) safe when traveling
in your vehicle. It's important to familiarize your pet with the
vehicle restraint of choice weeks or months before traveling so that
they are comfortable.

Temporary ID Tag: In the unfortunate event that
your pet runs off while you're traveling. A temporary identification
tag, along with a photo of your pet will help ensure their safe return.
Attach a temporary ID tag to your pet's collar in addition to their
permanent tag. Include the address and phone number of where you'll be
staying along with your cell phone number and perhaps your email
address. This is one of the most important aspects of traveling with
your pet, but also one of the most overlooked. In addition, bring along a
current photo of your pet. A photograph will make it easier for others
to help you find your lost pet.

Packing Essentials: When packing for your pet
include an ample supply of your pet's food. Don't rely on stopping
along the way to pick up their food or picking it up at your final
destination. Their particular brand of food may not be readily available
and it is not advisable to introduce your pet to a new brand of food
while traveling. Other essentials to pack for your pet include
collapsible travel food and water bowls, bedding, litter and litter box,
leash, collar and tags, favorite toys, grooming supplies, a pet
first-aid kit and any necessary medications. And of courseâ€¦be sure to
always have an ample supply of water available for your pet.

Secure Pet Friendly Accommodations: If you're
planning a long journey and will need to stay in pet friendly
accommodations on the way to your final destination, be sure to secure
these accommodations before you hit the road. Map out where you'll be
spending the night and arrange for lodging along the way. Our Search
By Route will allow you to find pet friendly lodging along your route by
plugging in your origination location and final destination. Pet
policies do change some times without notice and accommodations may be
limited so it's recommended that you contact the property in advance.

Medical Records: In case of a medical emergency
while traveling, it is advisable to bring along your pets medical
records along with your vet's contact information should they be needed
for consultation.

Hitting the Road

No Heads Out the Window: Although many pets find
that sticking their head out the window is the best part of the road
trip, it's not safe. Your pet can easily be injured by flying debris.
This should go without saying, but NEVER travel with a pet in the back
of a pickup truck. Some states have laws restricting such transport and
it is always dangerous.

Frequent Pit Stops: Always provide frequent
bathroom and exercise breaks. Most travel service areas have designated
areas for walking your pet. Be sure to stay in this area particularly
when you pet needs a potty breakâ€¦and of course, bring along a bag to
pick up after your pet. When outside your vehicle, make sure that your
pet is always on a leash and wearing a collar with a permanent and
temporary travel identification tag.

Proper Hydration: During your pit stops be sure to
provide your pet with some fresh water to wet their whistle.
Occasionally traveling can upset your pet's stomach. Take along ice
cubes, which are easier on your pet than large amounts of water.

Watch the Food Intake: It is recommended that you
keep feeding to a minimum during travel. Be sure to feed them their
regular pet food and resist the temptation to give them some of your
fast food burger or fries (that never has a good ending).

Don't Leave Them Alone: Never leave your pet
unattended in a parked vehicle. On warm days, the temperature in your
vehicle can rise to 120 degrees in minutes, even with the windows
slightly open. In addition, an animal left alone in a vehicle is an open
invitation to pet thieves.

Practice Restraint: Be sure that your pet is
safely restrained in your vehicle. Utilizing a pet safety harness,
travel kennel, vehicle pet barrier, or pet car seat are the best ways to
keep your pet safe. They not only protect your pet from injury, but
they help by keeping them from distracting you as you drive. A safety
harness functions like a seatbelt. While most pets will not have a
problem adjusting to it, you may want to let them wear the harness by
itself a few times before using it in the vehicle. If your pet prefers a
travel kennel, be sure it is well ventilated and stabilized. Many pet
owners prefer vehicle barriers, particularly for larger pets. Vehicle
barriers are best suited for SUVs. Smaller pets are best suited for pet
car seats. The car seat is secured in the back seat using a seat belt
and your pet is secured in the car seat with a safety harness. In
addition to it's safety features, a pet car seat will prop up your
smaller pet, allowing them to better look out the window. No matter
what method you choose, back seat travel is always safer for your pet.

Safe and Comfortable: Whatever method you choose
to properly restrain your pet in your vehicle, be sure to make their
comfort a priority. Just as it's important for your "seat" to be
comfortable for your long road trip, your pet's seat should be
comfortable too. Typically their favorite blanket or travel bed will do
the trick. There are also some safe and very cozy pet car seats
available that your pet may find quite comfy.